Every five years, General Conference Session brings the global Seventh-day Adventist Church together in one location to reflect, realign, and recommit to mission. It is a moment marked by transition—new leadership, new goals, new direction. But what does this shift mean for everyday ministry leaders working on the ground in churches, schools, and community programs? And what role does Adventist Risk Management, Inc. (ARM) play in supporting that shift?
The Weight of the Moment
“This is where the next five years get shaped,” says James Winegardner, President and CEO of ARM. “The leadership we elect here—and the conversations that happen here—will shape the spiritual, operational, and practical work of the Church worldwide.”For ARM, that means more than just showing up. It means anticipating how new leadership might think about safety, risk, accountability, and resource management. And more importantly, it means supporting local leaders and frontline workers who will carry those decisions into practice.
Protecting Ministry at Every Level
Risk management may not always be the headline topic, but it’s foundational. Behind every Pathfinders event, health clinic, evangelistic campaign, or Sabbath service is a network of safeguards that help ensure people and property are protected.“Our mission is to protect the ministries of the Church,” James emphasizes. “Whether that’s helping a conference evaluate property risk, training local leaders on child safety, or providing insurance solutions that fit the realities of different parts of the world, our job is to make sure ministry can move forward without unnecessary disruption.”
A Changing Global Church
GC Session 2025 brings with it a new wave of global leadership, and ARM is preparing to serve them well. But as Andrea Ashman, VP of HR and Communication at ARM, notes, service isn’t just about shaking hands in the exhibit hall.“Leadership changes impact how information flows, how decisions are made, and how partnerships are built,” says Andrea. “We want people to know that ARM is a long-term partner. When new leaders step in, we’re not starting from scratch—we’re building on trust, showing up, and listening to the real needs they face in their regions.”
That commitment extends beyond division presidents or conference officers. It impacts every pastor, teacher, Pathfinders director, and elder trying to lead safe, effective ministry at the local level.
Listening, Learning, and Adapting
For Andrew Moll, ARM’s Chief Financial Officer, GC Session is also an invitation to listen more deeply. “We want to understand what leaders need from us,” Andrew says. “That might mean new educational resources, new models for risk-sharing, or just better ways to communicate our value. But it starts by being present and asking the right questions.”ARM’s presence at GC isn’t about products—it’s about partnership. That partnership becomes real when ministry leaders see that ARM isn’t just a corporate name on a policy, but a responsive team committed to supporting mission where it matters most.
A Moment to Refocus
GC Session 2025 is more than a gathering—it’s a reset. For ARM, it’s a chance to recommit to serving a global Church with integrity, compassion, excellence, and transparency. And for the thousands of frontline leaders serving in local churches and ministries around the world, it’s a reminder that you are not alone.Wherever you serve, ARM is here to protect your mission—so you can stay focused on the ministry God has called you to lead.
